NTI Releases New Interactive, Online Tutorial on Nuclear and Radiological Security

The ABCs of dirty bombs, nuclear terrorism and illicit trafficking

The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), in partnership with the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS), today released a new online tutorial on nuclear and radiological security. The mobile-friendly resource features fresh, interactive learning tools—from motion graphics to dynamic maps—to bring students, professionals and media up to speed on the risks posed by nuclear and radiological terrorism.

A motion graphic video uses three true incidents to illustrate the threat of nuclear terrorism and the importance of securing all nuclear materials worldwide to prevent it.  An interactive "pathways to the bomb" tool drills down to show how a terrorist might buy, build or steal a nuclear weapon.  A story map shows the global nature of illicit trafficking in nuclear and radiological materials and uses historical and modern-day cases of smuggling in each corner of the world.

In addition to providing an overview of the threats, the tutorial covers steps governments around the world are taking to strengthen nuclear and radiological security.  Visitors can also learn about the most significant gaps in the global nuclear security architecture and the role of the Nuclear Security Summits.

Like the other NTI tutorials, visitors can test their knowledge at the end of each tutorial. Educators can integrate the tutorial into their lesson plans and ask students to present a certificate of completion after taking the quiz.

Those interested in a deeper dive on nuclear and radiological security as well as illicit trafficking will find in-depth resources on NTI's website. In addition to country profiles and resources on nuclear and radiological security-related treaties and regimes, the NTI Nuclear Materials Security Index provides a comprehensive view of nuclear materials security in 176 countries and offers recommendations states can undertake to prevent nuclear terrorism. A CNS-produced database and annual report catalogs all incidents of illicit trafficking in nuclear and radiological materials. 

The Nuclear and Radiological Security tutorial adds to NTI's growing library of online tutorials covering a wide range of nonproliferation topics, including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Regime and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Upcoming tutorials will cover the nuclear fuel cycle, the nuclear budget, delivery systems and biological and chemical weapons.

About the Nuclear Threat Initiative
NTI is a non-profit, non-partisan organization working to reduce the global threats from nuclear, biological and chemical weapons.  NTI is co-chaired by Sam Nunn and Ted Turner and governed by an international board of directors.  The organization's activities are directed by Nunn, who serves as chief executive officer, and Joan Rohlfing, who serves as president.  Learn more at www.nti.org

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